A personal Inventory of Jürg Conzett, Photographed by Martin Linsi

Edited by the Swiss Federal Office of Culture, Berne. Concept and text by Jürg Conzett. Photographs by Martin Linsi

2nd, revised edition

, 2012

Hardback

272 pages, 169 duotone illustrations, 32 line drawings

29.5 x 19.5 cm

ISBN 978-3-85881-360-2

Content

Landscapes and Structures is a striking visual tour of Switzerland’s public structural landmarks through the personal view of the internationally renowned civil engineer Jürg Conzett. Civil engineering structures comprise bridges, tunnels, passageways, and other built transport routes; and Conzett and photographer Martin Linsi aimed to showcase examples that demonstrate architectural aspirations and a special relationship to the landscape.

The book’s twenty chapters highlight those works—such as the Sittertobel railway bridge between St. Gallen and Herisau and the Susten mountain pass—that contribute to pertinent discussions in design and engineering, including questions of design within the cultural heritage movement, the reciprocal relationship between a townscape and its structures, and the tradition of relying on local materials and craftsmanship. As a whole, the book serves as an insider’s tour of how Switzerland’s most notable public structures highlight and complement the landscape.

The book was first published to coincide with the Swiss pavilion, curated by Jürg Conzett, at the 12th International Architecture Exhibition of the Biennale in Venice. It has been awarded a Commendation in the category civil engineering works of the 2010 DAM Architectural Book Award.